The Key to Writing Spice
Let’s be honest: romance novels can get repetitive when they’re all spice and no plot. As a reader, I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve skimmed through the steaminess just to get back to the main story. But then there are those moments where the heat keeps me glued to the page. So, what makes the difference? Why does one intimate scene pull me in, while another just falls flat?
In this post, I’ll show you how to write better romance novels by making your sex scenes more engaging, keeping your readers hooked from start to finish.
1. Create Change
I’m not just talking about changing the setting or having your characters try different positions—though those things can definitely add interest. Readers read romance because they crave an emotional connection between the characters, and they want that connection to evolve throughout the story. If your book has multiple sex scenes, introducing emotional shifts between characters can prevent the intimacy from feeling stagnant. Here is an example:
1st Spicy Scene
The characters are enemies stranded on an island. They sleep together, but the sex is selfish and impersonal. It means nothing. They still hate each other.
2nd
They’ve worked together to build a boat, and their feelings have evolved. Their touches are now more intimate and exploratory. Things are getting personal.
3rd
After a perilous journey back to the mainland, the characters are free. This time, they can’t get enough of each other. It’s passionate. They survived against all odds, and now they’re in love.
Ask Yourself:
How have the characters' feelings toward each other shifted between this intimate moment and the last?
2. Give them Stakes
Spicy scenes need tension and conflict, just like any other part of your story. Whether the stakes are emotional or external, something should always be on the line.
Internal Conflict
They’re friends with benefits, but he’s secretly falling for her. One night, she shows up unannounced, and while they’re together, he’s struggling to keep his true feelings hidden.
External Conflict
A student and professor get caught up in the heat of the moment in an empty classroom during school hours. Someone could walk in at any time.
Ask Yourself:
What’s at risk for your characters in this scene?
3. Reveal Character
Spicy scenes are an opportunity to show readers a new, vulnerable side of your characters. This is where they reveal parts of themselves that they’ve kept hidden.
Example
Imagine your protagonist is a ruthless vampire lord who always has to be in control. When he finally gets the stubborn love interest into bed, readers are surprised to learn that he lets her take charge.
Ask Yourself:
What new information does this scene reveal about my characters?
By focusing on emotional changes, creating stakes, and revealing character, you can write sex scenes that are not only spicy but also integral to your story. It’s all about maintaining a genuine connection between your characters and keeping your readers engaged.
Happy writing!
